Aldosterone is an adrenal gland hormone responsible for regulating fluid balance. Aldosterone causes the kidneys to increase reabsorption of salt and water and excrete potassium. The principle use for aldosterone measurement is the diagnosis of a specific type of adrenal tumor called an adenoma. Additionally, certain metabolic conditions outside of the adrenal gland can also cause aldosterone to rise. This is called secondary aldosteronism which may occur with congestive heart failure, liver and kidney disease, and a sodium depleted diet.

In 2005, the Journal Hearing Research¹ published a paper on the association between low blood levels of aldosterone and hearing loss in older individuals. Simply put…the more aldosterone in the bloodstream, the better the hearing.

Make sure you speak with your health care professional regarding prescription medications prior to ordering this test. Dietary sodium levels during the period prior to testing can affect aldosterone levels - so, a normal sodium diet of 3 grams or less per day is best.

Instructions

Fasting is not required for this test. Take all medications as prescribed. It is important for you to remain ambulatory for 30 minutes prior to blood collection.

References

1. Hear Res. 2005 Nov;209(1-2):10-8.